Supporting You Through Your Pet’s Final Journey
Cat and dog euthanasia is an emotional topic for any pet parent. Yet it is one of the most important decisions you can make for your pet’s well-being. Euthanasia frees your pet from unnecessary suffering so they can pass in peace. At Park Grove Pet Hospital, we’re here to help you through this difficult journey with end-of-life pet care and euthanasia services.
Our Pet Euthanasia Services
If pet euthanasia is decided on, we’ll set up an appointment for you to either bring your pet to the clinic or for us to come to you for a home euthanasia. On the day of your appointment, we aim to be as sensitive as possible to your needs and those of your pet. We’ll administer a sedative to your pet to keep them calm and comfortable. Next, when you’re ready, we’ll administer the euthanasia. The euthanasia works almost instantly and your pet feels no pain at all. You’re more than welcome to stay with your pet throughout this process, or if you’re more comfortable, you can step outside the room while we administer the euthanasia. Please keep in mind that after your pet has passed on, they may still move or twitch slightly – this is perfectly normal and is a sign of the body fully relaxing.
Afterward, we’ll give you as much time as you need with your pet. If you would like some suggestions for after-care services, please don’t hesitate to ask. We’re happy to help.
Tips for Knowing When It’s Time To Say Goodbye
While your pet can’t explicitly tell you when they’re ready to go, there are some telling signs to look for. Assessing their quality of life is the best method for determining if they are suffering. Some things to look at to determine quality of life include:
- Play – Does your pet still enjoy playing?
- Social Interaction – Does your pet seek out your presence or that of other family members?
- Behavior – Is your pet significantly different than they used to be? Has their personality diminished or do they seem lethargic and depressed?
- Appetite – How is your pet’s appetite? Do they still eat their regular food?
- Drinking – Are they drinking often and urinating regularly?
- Movement – Do they move normally and without restriction? Does your pet have significant trouble getting up and down? Are they limping, shuffling or not moving at all?
- Weight – Are they losing weight at a steady rate?
- Stool – Is their stool normal? Are they experiencing diarrhea or constipation frequently?
- Grooming – Are they able to groom themselves properly or is their coat dirty, greasy, or matted?
If your answers to these questions were primarily negative, it may be time to consider pet euthanasia. Talk to your veterinarian to determine if there are any other palliative care options to consider before deciding on euthanasia. We’ll help assess your pet’s condition and make suggestions for how to improve their quality of life, if possible.
